9 Best Over Ear Headphones for Noise Cancellation, Sound Quality, Gaming, Travel, and Kids
Looking for the perfect pair of over-ear headphones can feel overwhelming with so many options flooding the market. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who simply values high-quality audio, finding the right headphones is essential for an immersive experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 9 best over-ear headphones that stand out for their superior sound quality, comfort, and innovative features. Get ready to elevate your listening experience and discover which headphones are worth your investment.
The Best Overall Over Ear Headphone
Choosing the best overall over-ear headphone can significantly enhance your audio experience, offering the perfect blend of sound quality, comfort, and durability.
Features and Benefits
Sony WH-1000XM4 stands out due to its industry-leading noise-canceling technology. Enjoy an immersive sound experience with the adaptive sound control feature adjusting to your environment. The headphones boast up to 30 hours of battery life, making them perfect for long listening sessions. Additionally, they come with touch sensor controls for easy management of playback and calls. Comfort is ensured with the soft, pressure-relieving earpads, ideal for prolonged use.
Price Range and Availability
You can find the Sony WH-1000XM4 typically priced between $300 and $350. They are widely available through major online retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and direct from Sony’s website. Occasionally, you may spot deals during sales events like Black Friday, making them more accessible.
Best Budget Over Ear Headphones
Choosing budget-friendly headphones doesn’t mean you have to compromise on features or quality. Here are our top picks for budget over-ear headphones that provide excellent value.
Features and Quality on a Budget
JBL Tune 500BT stands out in the budget category with impressive sound quality. These headphones offer deep bass, crisp trebles, and a strong midrange for an all-around listening experience. The battery life lasts up to 16 hours, ensuring prolonged use without frequent charging.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20 offers hybrid active noise cancellation, a rarity at this price point. You get up to 40 hours of playtime and a robust build quality, making it a durable choice for everyday use.
Sony MDR-ZX110 is known for its lightweight design and comfortable ear cushions. Despite its affordability, it features dynamic sound and a balanced audio profile, ideal for various music genres.
Where to Buy
You can buy the JBL Tune 500BT on Amazon for around $50, often with discounts. Major retailers like Best Buy and Target also carry these headphones, so you can easily find deals.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is available on Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy for approximately $60. Ensure to check online reviews and ratings to validate your choice.
Sony MDR-ZX110 can be found on Amazon for as low as $15, providing a super-economical option. Local electronics stores and major retailers frequently stock these headphones, making them easily accessible.
By choosing one of these budget-friendly options, you ensure quality sound without breaking the bank.
Best Over Ear Headphones for Noise Cancellation
Discovering the best over-ear headphones for noise cancellation lets you enjoy music or podcasts without distractions. Here are the top choices with standout features.
Top Features for Noise Blocking
- Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling: Combines feedforward and feedback ANC through multiple microphones. Examples include Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose 700.
- Adaptive Sound Control: Adjusts noise cancellation based on your environment. Sony WH-1000XM4 is notable for this feature.
- Long Battery Life: Ensures extended listening. Bose 700 offers up to 20 hours, while Sony WH-1000XM4 stretches to 30 hours.
- Comfortable Design: Provides wearability for lengthy sessions. Designs like the Bose QuietComfort 35 II are padded and lightweight.
- High-Resolution Audio: Delivers top-notch sound quality. Models such as the Sennheiser Momentum 3 compete in this space.
| Brand & Model | Price Range | Noise Cancelling Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM4 | $348 | Excellent |
| Bose 700 | $379 | Excellent |
| Sennheiser Momentum 3 | $399 | Very Good |
| Bose QuietComfort 35 II | $299 | Very Good |
| Anker Soundcore Life Q20 | $60 | Good |
| JBL Everest Elite 750NC | $299 | Good |
- Sony WH-1000XM4: Offers best-in-class noise cancellation and adaptive sound control at $348.
- Bose 700: Known for excellent noise-blocking capabilities, priced around $379.
- Sennheiser Momentum 3: High-resolution audio and strong noise cancellation for $399.
- Bose QuietComfort 35 II: Priced at $299, combining comfort with effective noise cancelling.
- Anker Soundcore Life Q20: Budget-friendly at $60, offering solid noise cancelation.
- JBL Everest Elite 750NC: Priced at $299, featuring good noise cancelling with a quality build.
Choosing the best over-ear headphones for noise cancellation means considering features like hybrid ANC, battery life, and brand reputation. Each of these models offers something unique, making it easier to find the perfect match for your needs.
Best Over Ear Headphones for Comfort
Choosing headphones that prioritize comfort can enhance your listening experience, especially during long sessions. Here’s what to look for and some top models to consider.
Design Elements That Enhance Comfort
- Padding
Look for headphones with thick, plush padding on the ear cups and headband. Memory foam ear pads, such as those found on the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, offer superior comfort. - Adjustability
Select headphones with adjustable headbands and swivel ear cups. Adjustable designs like the Sennheiser Momentum 3 ensure a snug, customizable fit for various head sizes. - Weight
Pay attention to the weight. Lightweight models like the Sony WH-1000XM4 minimize pressure on your head, making them ideal for extended use. - Breathability
Choose ear pads with breathable materials to prevent overheating. Breathable mesh fabrics, as used in the JBL Everest Elite 750NC, can make prolonged listening more comfortable. - Clamping Force
Consider the clamping force. The Bose 700, known for its considerate clamping pressure, provides a firm yet gentle grip that doesn’t cause discomfort over time.
- Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Known for its soft memory foam ear cups and lightweight design, this model excels in delivering comfort. Perfect for all-day wear with premium noise cancellation. - Sony WH-1000XM4
These headphones combine light weight, plush padding, and an ergonomic design. They’re great for long-term use and feature excellent sound quality and active noise cancellation. - Sennheiser Momentum 3
Features soft, genuine leather ear pads and adjustable headbands. Praised for its comfort and stylish design, it’s an excellent choice for extended listening sessions. - Bose 700
Equipped with breathable earcups and gentle clamping force, these headphones are designed for ultimate comfort. The advanced noise-canceling features also enhance your overall experience. - JBL Everest Elite 750NC
These offer breathable mesh fabric ear pads and a sturdy yet comfortable design. They’re ideal for users looking for prolonged comfort without compromising on sound quality.
Best Over Ear Headphones for Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, several headphones stand out from the rest. Here’s what you need to know.
What Makes Great Sound Quality?
Great sound quality hinges on several factors. Frequency response ensures a balanced sound across lows, mids, and highs. Drivers, like dynamic or planar magnetic, translate electrical signals into sound efficiently. Soundstage determines how spacious and immersive the audio feels. Finally, Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) must be low to produce clear sound without distortion. Always consider these elements when choosing headphones for superior audio fidelity.
- Sony WH-1000XM4: Deliver excellent sound quality with a wide frequency response and industry-leading noise cancellation. These headphones offer powerful bass, clear mids, and detailed highs.
- Sennheiser HD 800 S: Known for their impressive soundstage and accurate audio reproduction. They’re ideal for audiophiles seeking a pristine listening experience.
- Bose 700: Provide balanced sound with a strong emphasis on clarity and vocal precision. The active EQ ensures consistent sound at any volume.
- Audeze LCD-X: Feature planar magnetic drivers for exceptional clarity and depth in sound. They’re perfect for studio professionals and critical listeners.
- Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro: Offer high-resolution sound with a wide frequency response. They’re great for both mixing and mastering in a professional environment.
- Philips SHP9500: Deliver a neutral sound signature with a wide soundstage. These budget-friendly headphones are great for both casual listening and critical listening sessions.
- Focal Utopia: Known for their luxurious design and high-fidelity sound. They produce a natural, lifelike sound with a broad dynamic range.
- AKG K812: Provide an expansive frequency range and exceptional detail in audio reproduction. These headphones excel in revealing the nuances of complex music tracks.
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: Offer accurate sound reproduction with a balanced frequency response. They’re highly regarded in both the consumer and professional audio communities.
Best Over Ear Headphones for Gaming
When looking for the best over-ear headphones for gaming, it’s vital to consider features that enhance your gameplay experience. You need headphones designed specifically to meet gamers’ needs.
Gaming-Specific Features
Surround Sound: Immersive audio is crucial for a true gaming experience. Surround sound capabilities let you hear where sounds are coming from, enhancing directional awareness in games.
Low Latency: Reducing the delay between audio and video is essential. Low latency ensures that sound effects and voice communications sync perfectly with on-screen actions.
Comfort: Long gaming sessions demand comfortable headphones. Features like adjustable headbands, plush ear pads, and lightweight designs help prevent fatigue during extended play.
Microphone Quality: Clear communication with teammates is a must. Look for headphones with high-quality, noise-canceling microphones to ensure you’re heard clearly, even in noisy environments.
Best Models for Gamers
SteelSeries Arctis Pro: Offering high-fidelity audio, surround sound, and a high-quality retractable microphone, it’s designed for competitive gaming. The comfortable fit and durable build make it ideal for hours of use.
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro: Featuring THX Spatial Audio for a detailed soundstage, low latency, and a highly adjustable, comfy design. Its detachable microphone provides clear and crisp communication.
HyperX Cloud Alpha: Known for its dual-chamber drivers that separate bass from mids and highs, ensuring immersive sound quality. The memory foam ear cushions provide comfort, and the detachable noise-canceling mic offers clear in-game communication.
Logitech G Pro X: Equipped with Blue VO!CE microphone technology for pro-grade voice clarity, it’s perfect for team play. The durable build and soft memory foam ear cups ensure long-lasting comfort.
Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT: Combining high-fidelity sound, surround sound, and a broadcast-grade removable microphone. Its premium memory foam ear pads and lightweight design make it comfortable for long gaming marathons.
Best Over Ear Headphones for Travel
Compact and Durable Designs
When you’re on the move, you need headphones that are both sturdy and portable. The Sony WH-1000XM4 stands out with its foldable design and hard-shell case, making it easy to pack in any bag. Bose QuietComfort 35 II also features a lightweight build and comes with a durable travel case, ideal for frequent travelers. Jabra Elite 85h offers water and dust resistance, adding to its durability for diverse travel conditions.
Models with Long Battery Life
Long flights and extended trips call for headphones that can keep up. The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless offers up to 17 hours of battery life, ensuring you stay connected even on long journeys. Sony WH-1000XM4 provides an impressive 30 hours of playtime on a single charge, perfect for international travel. The Bose 700 also delivers up to 20 hours of usage, combining longevity with excellent noise cancellation to make your travel experience seamless.
Best Over Ear Headphones for Working Out
Choosing the right headphones is crucial for maintaining motivation and performance during workouts. Here are some top picks that excel in sweat resistance and stability, making them ideal for athletes.
Sweat Resistance and Stability
Sweat can damage electronics, so it’s important to pick headphones that handle moisture well. Look for models with an IPX4 rating or higher, which indicates water resistance. Stability is key to keep headphones in place during intense activities. Brands like JBL and Plantronics focus on ergonomic designs that fit snugly without slipping.
- JBL Endurance Peak II – Designed for extreme workouts, these headphones feature TwistLock technology to ensure they stay secure. They have an IPX7 rating, making them resistant to both sweat and rain.
- Plantronics BackBeat FIT 6100 – Known for their adjustable, Sport-fit headband, these headphones stay put during vigorous activities. Their IPX5 rating ensures protection against sweat and moisture.
- Bose SoundSport Wireless – Combining comfort and stability, these headphones feature StayHear+ tips for a secure fit. Though not over-ear, their performance and IPX4 rating make them a solid option for more moderate workouts.
- Beats Powerbeats Pro – With ear hooks that provide additional security, these headphones are perfect for runners and gym-goers. They feature an IPX4 rating and up to 9 hours of battery life to keep you going through long sessions.
- Sony WH-CH700N – While primarily praised for their noise-canceling features, these headphones also offer good moisture resistance and a comfortable over-ear fit, making them suitable for lighter workouts.
Selecting the right pair combines both durability and comfort, ensuring your headphones keep up with your active lifestyle.
Best Over Ear Headphones for Kids
Choosing headphones for kids requires special considerations to ensure safety and comfort. Here are some factors and models that cater to children’s needs.
Safety and Durability Factors
Safety. Prioritize limiting volume levels to protect young ears. Look for models with a maximum volume of 85 decibels (dB). Durability. Choose headphones built to withstand rough handling. Models with reinforced cables and impact-resistant design last longer. Comfort. Select lightweight and cushioned headphones to keep kids comfortable during extended use.
Kid-Friendly Models
PuroQuiets. Offer volume-limiting technology at 85 dB, along with active noise cancellation. BuddyPhones Explore+. Feature durable, bendable materials, and limit volume to safe levels. JBL JR 300. Present child-friendly designs and soft ear cushions, emphasizing comfort and safe listening levels.
Conclusion
Choosing the right over-ear headphones depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re seeking top-notch noise cancellation, superior sound quality, or the best options for gaming, travel, workouts, or even for kids, there’s a perfect pair out there for you. Prioritize features like comfort, durability, battery life, and safety to ensure you get the most out of your investment. With the variety of high-quality options available, you’re sure to find headphones that elevate your listening experience to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best noise-canceling over-ear headphones?
For top-notch noise cancellation and comfort, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose 700 stand out. Both offer excellent noise-canceling features and long-lasting comfort for extended use.
Which over-ear headphones are best for sound quality?
For exceptional sound quality, consider the Sennheiser HD 800 S and Audeze LCD-X. These models are highly regarded for their superior audio fidelity and detailed sound reproduction.
What are the best gaming over-ear headphones?
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro and Razer BlackShark V2 Pro are top choices for gamers. They offer features like surround sound and excellent microphone quality, enhancing the gaming experience.
What are the best over-ear headphones for travel?
For travel, the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort 35 II are excellent picks. They are compact, durable, portable, and offer long battery life for extended trips.
Which over-ear headphones are best for working out?
For workouts, look for sweat-resistant and stable designs. Brands like JBL, Plantronics, Bose, Beats, and Sony offer great options that stay secure during exercise.
What should I consider when selecting over-ear headphones for kids?
When choosing headphones for kids, prioritize safety features like volume limitation to 85 dB, durability, and comfort. Models like PuroQuiets, BuddyPhones Explore+, and JBL JR 300 are good choices for their child-friendly designs and safety features.
